This news was expected all week due to Mariota's neck/stinger injury, so fantasy owners should have already prepared for this inevitability. The Titans will have to rely on Blaine Gabbert in a win-or-go-home matchup against the Colts in Week 17.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen is reporting Titans QB Marcus Mariota (stinger) is not expected to play in Week 17.

Fantasy Impact

Per reports, independent doctors had informed the Titans that Mariota's longterm future throwing the football beyond this weekend would be at risk if he endures further damage to his arm -- he is dealing with a nerve condition stemming from a stinger. Moreover, the Titans also signed free agent quarterback Austin Davis earlier in the week, which suggests Mariota's playing status is trending in the wrong direction. At this point, expect Blaine Gabbert and not Mariota to be under center for the Titans on Sunday Night Football taking on the AFC South division rival Colts with a playoff berth on the line.

Despite the "intention of playing," Mariota's playing status is up in the air. Dealing with a stringer, the Titans won't have a better determination on Mariota until it is closer to game time, but if he is active, reports are suggesting that he won't be at 100 percent full health. Blaine Gabbert will be ready to go just in case in a win and you're in matchup against the Colts in the Week 17 season finale.

Marcus Mariota is listed as questionable to play due to his shoulder injury.

Fantasy Impact

Mariota has been able to practice the past two days, but his status remains in question. The team will likely do whatever it can to ensure that Mariota at least starts the game, but he's a risky play at QB given the team's inclination to run the ball and his own questionable health. He's not much more than a middling QB2 this weekend.

Coach Mike Vrabel confirmed Monday that Marcus Mariota is dealing with a stinger in his throwing elbow, but noted the injury isn't related to the one he dealt with earlier in the season, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports.

Fantasy Impact

It looks good for Mariota to make the start against the Colts in Week 17. It is a must-win situation for the Titans and they will need Mariota if he is able to go. If he can't go then Blaine Gabbert will get the start.